The Department of
Water and Sanitation would like to caution people of faith to steer clear of water
bodies during the coming Easter weekend.
During Easter
holidays, people of different faiths traditionally go to rivers to perform
their religious activities such as baptism, amongst others. This practice has
proven dangerous in most cases as the Department has been alerted of incidences
of drownings in the past.
According to
Departmental Spokesperson, Sputnik Ratau, the recent downpours in some parts of
the country will make it even more dangerous to conduct such religious
practices as water levels in certain rivers have increased sharply.
“While we respect
people’s religious beliefs, it is equally our responsibility as government to
alert everyone about the danger associated with baptism in raging rivers,
particularly during this period. Being religious should not lead to deaths of
innocent people. The safety of everyone is our priority, therefore, we
encourage everyone to find alternative ways of baptism to ensure safety,” Ratau said.
In addition, he said that the current rainfall in many parts of South Africa is expected to continue
and water levels in rivers and dams are equally expected to raise sharply.
Ratau further
explained that dams and rivers have undercurrents, and it is dangerous to step
into water when one does not know the depth of the water.
“Both these
unknowns are very dangerous and can cause fatal injuries, coupled with the fact
that there are floating objects that cannot be seen,” Ratau emphasised.
As
holidaymakers will be flocking to different directions to take a break from
economic activities, Ratau pleaded with them to enjoy with responsibility and
avoid visiting the Department’s dams under the influence of alcohol.
The
Department will continue to monitor all its dams and release water where
necessary to relieve pressure off the dams, thus ensuring safety of those
living downstream.
Issued by the Department of Water and Sanitation
